This new software, also referred to as Automated Target
Recognition (ATR), will auto-detect items that could
pose a potential threat using a generic outline of a
person for all passengers. In the coming months, TSA
will install the software upgrade on all currently
deployed millimeter wave imaging technology units at
U.S. airports nationwide.

By
eliminating the image of an actual passenger and replacing it
with a generic outline of a person, passengers are able to view
the same outline that the TSA officer sees. Further, a separate
TSA officer will no longer be required to view the image in a
remotely located viewing room. In addition to further enhancing
privacy protections, this new software will increase the
efficiency of the screening process and expand the throughput
capability of AIT.

“Our top
priority is the safety of the traveling public, and TSA
constantly strives to explore and implement new technologies
that enhance security and strengthen privacy protections for the
traveling public,” TSA Administrator John Pistole said. “This
software upgrade enables us to continue providing a high level
of security through advanced imaging technology screening, while
improving the passenger experience at checkpoints.”

The new
software automatically detects potential threats and indicates
their location on a generic, computer-generated outline of a
person that appears on a monitor attached to the AIT unit. As
with the current version of AIT, if a potential threat is
detected, the area will require additional screening. If no
potential threats are detected, an “OK” appears on the monitor
with no outline, and the passenger is cleared.

TSA worked
with the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Science &
Technology Directorate (S&T) and private industry to develop the
new software. In February 2011, TSA successfully tested the new
software at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International, Las Vegas
McCarran International and Ronald Reagan Washington National
airports.

The new software will be installed on all millimeter
wave AIT units currently in airports, with plans to test
similar software for backscatter units in the fall. AIT
safely screens passengers without physical contact for
both metallic and non-metallic threats, including
weapons and explosives. Currently, there are nearly 500
imaging technology units at 78 airports nationwide,
including millimeter wave and backscatter units, with
additional units planned for deployment this year.